Devotees Gather for Decennial Exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s Relics in Goa

The 45-day decennial exposition of the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier has commenced in Goa, drawing pilgrims and tourists from across the world. This grand event, the 18th of its kind, began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, where the saint’s mortal remains have been enshrined since 1624. The exposition is a profound testament to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Goa, uniting people of different faiths and nationalities.

Following the Eucharistic Mass on the opening day, the holy relics were ceremonially transported in an electric carriage to the nearby Se Cathedral, where they will remain for veneration until January 5, 2025. Over a thousand devotees formed a human chain across the church complex to honor the saint’s remains, joined by clergy, volunteers, and representatives from various social groups. This symbolic procession reflects the deep reverence and devotion surrounding St. Francis Xavier, often referred to by locals as “Goencho Saib,” or the protector of Goa.

A Legacy of Faith and Service

St. Francis Xavier, a Spanish Jesuit missionary, is celebrated for his tireless efforts in spreading Christianity across Asia in the 16th century. Born in 1506, Xavier renounced his noble lineage to dedicate his life to God, influenced by his friendship with St. Ignatius of Loyola. As a Jesuit priest and missionary, Xavier spent seven years in India, where he baptized tens of thousands, taught children about faith, and cared for prisoners and the sick. His missionary journey extended to Japan, where he laid the foundation for the first generation of Japanese Catholics, before succumbing to illness on his way to China in 1552.

After his death on Shangchuan Island, Xavier’s body was discovered to be incorrupt. His remains were eventually brought to Goa in 1554, where they have become a symbol of unity and spirituality. Canonized in 1622, St. Francis Xavier is now regarded as the patron saint of Goa, with his feast day celebrated on December 3.

A Historic and Spiritual Event

The decennial exposition not only honors the saint’s spiritual legacy but also attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists to Goa. The Church authorities estimate that over 8 million visitors will participate in the 45-day event, surpassing the 5.5 million recorded during the last exposition in 2014. For this significant occasion, the Goa state government has made extensive arrangements, including the construction of 33 cottages with a capacity to host 400 pilgrims daily. Additionally, more than 700 police personnel have been deployed for security and traffic management.

In a departure from tradition, the glass casket containing the saint’s relics was transported using an electric carriage to avoid logistical challenges. Previously, groups of devotees carried the casket on their shoulders. The four-century-old casket, which was lowered in a private ceremony the day before the exposition began, remains a focal point of reverence during this event.

Messages of Unity and Inspiration

During the opening Mass, Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi emphasized the saint’s missionary zeal and devotion to God’s will. “St. Francis Xavier was a man on a mission whose only desire was to proclaim the good news of salvation in Christ to the whole world,” the Archbishop stated. He highlighted Xavier’s dedication to prayer, his compassion for the poor and the sick, and his enduring legacy of faith that continues to inspire millions.

Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao of Goa and Daman welcomed pilgrims from around the globe and highlighted the theme of this year’s exposition, “We are messengers of the good news.” He expressed hope that the spiritual event would enrich the lives of participants and encourage reflection on the values the saint embodied.

Goan native Cruz Cardozo described the exposition as more than a religious event. “It symbolizes unity, faith, and the enduring legacy of our patron saint, who dedicated his life to serving humanity and spreading love and compassion. It reaffirms our shared identity and connection to our history while inspiring us to build a future guided by his cherished principles,” he said.

The Remarkable Journey of St. Francis Xavier’s Relics

The journey of St. Francis Xavier’s relics is as fascinating as the saint’s life. His incorrupt body, initially buried on Shangchuan Island, was later moved to Malacca and finally to Goa. Over the centuries, his relics have undergone various events, including the removal of his right forearm in 1614 at the request of Pope Paul V. This relic now resides in Rome but has traveled occasionally, including a notable visit to Canada. Meanwhile, a toe, reportedly bitten off by a devout pilgrim during the first exposition in 1554, is preserved in Goa.

The tradition of public expositions of the relics began in 1782 to dispel rumors that Xavier’s body had been replaced. Since then, these expositions have become a regular occurrence, drawing believers and curious visitors alike. The saint’s body, displayed in a glass casket to protect it from further damage, remains a source of spiritual solace for millions.

A Call for Reflection and Renewal

The exposition not only provides an opportunity for veneration but also serves as a reminder of the saint’s values and teachings. The theme of this year’s event encourages participants to reflect on their roles as messengers of the good news, drawing inspiration from Xavier’s life of selflessness and service. The exposition is also seen as a platform for fostering religious harmony, with people from diverse faiths paying their respects to the saint.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in anticipation of the event, hailed St. Francis Xavier as a “symbol of peace,” underscoring the saint’s universal appeal. Local organizers have taken great care to ensure the event is both spiritually enriching and logistically seamless, creating an environment where devotees can connect with their faith and heritage.

A Celebration of Goa’s Spiritual and Cultural Identity

The decennial exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s relics is more than a religious pilgrimage; it is a celebration of Goa’s rich spiritual and cultural identity. The event highlights the enduring legacy of a saint who dedicated his life to spreading love, compassion, and the message of salvation. As pilgrims gather to venerate the sacred relics, they are reminded of their shared history and the principles that continue to guide them toward a hopeful future.

With its blend of solemnity, devotion, and celebration, the exposition reaffirms the values of unity, faith, and service that St. Francis Xavier embodied. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring connection between the past and the present.

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